MSc Policing and Criminal Justice Leadership at Birmingham City University

Programme overview

Do you want to lead, influence and improve policing and criminal justice in a complex world? Whether you are starting out or seeking to advance your career, our master’s degree will equip you with the knowledge, skills and professional confidence to make a real impact. This course is ideal if you want to build a career in policing, criminal justice, public protection, security, investigation, policy, or leadership within the public and third sectors.

Faculty: Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences | Department: Sociology and Criminology | Duration: 1 year full-time; 18 months (Professional Placement) full-time | Study mode: full-time (optional professional placement) | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The course explores the theory, policy and practice that shape policing and criminal justice in contemporary society. You will examine how crime, harm and risk are understood and managed, how decisions are made in high-pressure operational environments, and how leadership influences organisational performance, legitimacy, and public trust and confidence. You will study key areas, including professional policing, criminal justice policy, criminology, safeguarding and public protection, leadership and management, inclusion and equality, and the ethical and legal dimensions of modern policing. Modules include Strategic Leadership and Management, Ethics and Diversity in Policing, Criminal Justice Leadership, Policing and Criminal Justice in the Machine Age, Research Methods and Practice, Policing Action Project, Multi-Professional Practice, Evidenced Based Practice.

Career pathways

The course also provides excellent opportunities to become involved in subject related academic research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a minimum of a 2:2 honours degree, or equivalent, in any subject. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis should a student possess enough relevant professional experience. Applicants are normally expected to have one of the following: A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree, or equivalent. An equivalent graduate level qualification from an overseas university or equivalent institution (minimum 2:2). A Pre-Master's programme approved by Birmingham City University. A Pre-Master's programme with a minimum of 55% average. Other qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. IELTS 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in each band, or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,710 a year (2027/28). full-time, 1 Year; annual tuition for the first year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 19,630 a year (2027/28). full-time, 1 Year; annual tuition for the first year of study Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time; 18 months (Professional Placement) full-time

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